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Antique European Bronze Apothecary Mortar & Pestle 17th Century Style 3lb
Very good antique condition with extensive age-related patina, oxidation, pitting, surface wear and casting irregularities throughout. Interior shows wear consistent with use. Left completely unpolished to preserve the original aged surface. Please see photos closely for condition and details.
Details:
* Early antique cast bronze mortar and pestle
* Apothecary / pharmacy form
* Likely Continental European
* Form is consistent with examples dating to approximately the 17th–18th century
* Heavy cast bronze construction
* Wide flared rim and molded pedestal foot
* Long turned pestle with decorative bands
* Substantial combined weight of 3 lb 2.2 oz
* No visible maker's mark
* Exact age and country of origin are unknown; attribution is based on form and Mortar height: 2.5"
* Rim diameter: 3.75"
* Base diameter: 2.75"
* Pestle length: 8.75"
* Pestle grinding end: approx. 1.5" diameter
* Combined weight: 3 lb 2.2 oz
Description:
The form and construction are comparable to European bronze pharmacy mortars preserved in museum collections and dating from the 16th through 18th centuries, including examples attributed to 1501–1700. Without provenance or a maker's mark, an exact date or country of origin cannot be confirmed; this piece is therefore conservatively described as likely 17th–18th century, possibly earlier within that range.
